Just curious why you want an external GPS device and not just use the GPS in your phone?

I've been doing that for a few years now, using the Backcountry Navigator app and have been very happy with it. Comparing phone tracks to my old trusty Garmin 60csx, the tracks are very comparable. The only downside is that it does take a lot of battery, but I carry and external battery pack if needed. I can usually go all day long on a charge and not have to use the battery, though.

I recently purchased a Garmin inReach Explorer, which has GPS and you can interface with it thru a Garmin app (using bluetooth), but I prefer the Backcountry Navigator app. I bought the inReach for communication - with the added benefit I could use it as a real GPS in a pinch - but it isn't nearly as useful as the old 60csx - except the maps are better.

I don't think I helped any, but that is what I use.

Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention to arrive safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming: WOW-What a ride!

Just curious why you want an external GPS device and not just use the GPS in your phone?

I use a Bad Elf Pro external GPS device. It is a much better GPS receiver than the GPS in my smartphone, providing better reception in the deep woods and other places where GPS reception can be dodgy. Smartphones use (or attempt to use) wi-fi, cell towers, network, etc to provide location information. This is why they work well in the city even in places that would be lousy for GPS reception by itself.

I use the Locus Maps Pro application because it's the only app I've found that will connect directly to an external bluetooth device. It provides tracking of course, but also provides photo and video waypoints that can be exported to Google Maps and other desktop applications.

Disclaimer:
This is a free, private forum and opinions posted by its members do not necessarily reflect those of Trailkeepers of Oregon. Hiking is a potentially risky activity, and the entire risk for users of this forum is assumed by the user, and in no event shall Trailkeepers of Oregon be liable for any injury or damages suffered as a result of relying on content in this forum. All content posted on the forum becomes the property of Trailkeepers of Oregon, and may not be used without permission.